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2026-08-16 04:16 UTC → 2026-08-22 08:12 UTC ·
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Shakhtar Donetsk to play Champions League hosting in London at Stamford Bridge
Due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, Shakhtar Donetsk has confirmed it will reached an agreement to host its 2026/27 UEFA Champions League home fixtures in London. Club boss Arda Turan stated, “It looks like we’ll be playing our European matches in London at Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge stadium for now,” as the club 2026/27 season. The arrangement, which remains subject to regulatory approval from UEFA, will allow the Ukrainian club to host at least four home games during the competition's league phase. Due to the ongoing Russian military invasion and security concerns, Shakhtar has been unable to use its Donbas Arena. The club is negotiating Arena since 2014. While the use of various London stadiums, including Craven Cottage and Gtech Community Stadium. However, officials have identified Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge club has previously hosted European fixtures in countries such as Poland, Germany, and Slovenia, the preferred option because its 40,000-seat capacity is better suited for high-profile fixtures. The move to London is also intended to connect with the significant Ukrainian population residing in London and the United Kingdom. Negotiations regarding Stamford Bridge have reached an advanced stage. The stadium is available for use because Chelsea is Chelsea, which did not participating in qualify for European competitions competition this season. The potential move is supported by a strong relationship between the two clubs, reinforced by the 2023 transfer of Mykhailo Mudryk and joint humanitarian efforts such as ‘Game4Ukraine’. A final agreement remains pending documentation season, will assist with matchday logistics to ensure safety and formal approval from UEFA smooth operations for the Ukrainian side and local authorities in its supporters. Shakhtar described the Hammersmith move to the historic London venue as a “special opportunity” and Fulham area. expressed gratitude to Chelsea for their support.